Leaders and experts gathered in Islamabad to discuss ways to make Pakistan’s Constitution more inclusive, particularly for women, at a national consultation organized under the Pakistan Women Leaders Project. The event, supported by the European Union in Pakistan, PIPS, the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus, and UN Women, aimed to bridge the gap between constitutional promises and the lived realities of citizens, with a particular focus on gender equality.
Participants reviewed key articles of the Constitution, drawing on insights from the first Gender Analysis of the Constitution carried out in 2023. The analysis revealed that out of 305 articles, only 102 require updates to ensure gender-inclusive language, pointing to a clear and manageable path for reform.
One of the main recommendations was to amend the General Clauses Act 1897 to introduce inclusive language, ensuring that constitutional laws accurately reflect gender diversity. The session also emphasized the urgency of aligning the Constitution’s protections with daily experiences to make the law more relevant and protective for all citizens, especially women.
The consultation highlighted the ongoing need for policy changes, reforms, and practical steps to ensure Pakistan’s constitutional commitments to equality and inclusiveness are fully implemented.
